If you’re serious about biking, or even if you’re an occasional weekend adventurer, whether you’re an avid cyclist or an occasional weekend adventurer, a bike carrier hitch is a must-have accessory for transporting your bike, safely and efficiently – from one place to another. This guide will explore what a bike carrier hitch is, what it does, and how you can select, maintain, and replace it. Get ready to hit the road!
Table of Contents:
– What is a bike carrier hitch?
– What does a bike carrier hitch do?
– How to choose a bike carrier hitch
– How long do bike carrier hitches last?
– How to replace a bike carrier hitch
– How much are bike carrier hitches?
What is a bike carrier hitch?
A bike carrier hitch is an item that attaches to the hitch receiver of a vehicle and offers an easy-to-access, secure way to transport bicycles. Unlike a roof rack or trunk-mounted carrier, hitch-mounted racks are easily loaded and unloaded without lifting the bike high over your head. They come in many styles and capacities, that will carry anything from a single bike to a family’s worth of bikes.
What does a bike carrier hitch do?
A bike carrier hitch is primarily designed to transport bicycles without having to use interior vehicle space or use additional items like roof racks. It is useful for long trips because the vehicle’s trunk or hatch can be easily opened. The models available would include fold-down or swing-away designs that would allow access to the rear of the vehicle even with bicycles loaded.
How to choose a bike carrier hitch
How do you choose the best bike carrier hitch for your needs? There are several things to consider. These include how many bikes you plan to carry, the type of vehicle you drive, and your budget. Is the hitch the right size for your vehicle’s hitch receiver? Does it have enough weight capacity? What are the types of bikes you’ll be carrying? Will your rack accommodate your bike frame or wheel size? Will the rack tilt for easy trunk, hatch or tailgate access?
How long do bike carrier hitches last?
With good quality materials, responsible use, and not sitting exposed to the elements, a bike carrier hitch can last five to seven years or more. Check over your bike carrier hitch from time to time for any signs of damage and rust. When you’re not using it, store it inside or cover it with a protective cover. Clean your bike carrier hitch periodically, and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations to lengthen its life.
How to replace a bike carrier hitch
Replacing your bike carrier hitch requires you to remove the old hitch from the hitch receiver and install a new one. Before attempting this, make sure the hitch is unlocked and remove any security devices. Slide the hitch out of the receiver, both ways, and check for any damage to the receiver or debris that may have built up. Slide the new hitch into place with adequate force but without damaging the receiver. Make sure the hitch is aligned and secured as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Every once in a while, check the hitch and the receiver for wear or damage that may hinder you in the future.
How much are bike carrier hitches?
Prices vary by a whole order of magnitude and more, depending upon factors such as capacity, construction material, brand, and features. Entry-level models start at less than $50; deluxe versions with extra features such as built-in locks or swing-away designs, or with high weight capacities, can set you back a few hundred dollars. In any event, consider the price in relation to the features that are most important to you: does security make the difference to you, for example, or ease of use, or durability?
Conclusion
A bike carrier hitch is a must-have accessory for a person who rides a bike and wants to transport it around. By knowing the types, functions and the factors that affect the selection of this hitch, you will get a trouble-free and enjoyable bike riding experience. The only thing you need to remember is to consider the item for long-term use and maintenance to get your money’s worth. A bike carrier hitch means a world of destinations is open on two wheels.
